Home security? We’ve got this on lock.
When it comes to your family and your home, there is nothing more important that feeling safe and protected. We won’t scare you, since we all know the dangers of burglary and home invasions, but we will reassure you that should you have the know-how, you can equip your home against them.
Home security systems have come a long way, offering standard locks and alarms, but now taking them into the 21st century with smart locks. This upgrade is an important one, as you can now add a smart sensor to your doors to securely lock up, and only allow select devices to be able to unlock the door, too.
Not only can smart locks be safer, but also more user-friendly, as you can have a keyless entry into your home — perfect for those that never forget their phone, but always forget their keys.
We also spoke to an expert on the topic from ADT, as who better to comment than a representative from one of the top security companies around. Abhijeet Bhattacharya, ADT’s senior director of products walked us through how to pick a lock — no, not like that! — to best secure your home in 2023.
What is a smart lock?
A smart lock is one that keeps you safe and secure.
Joking aside, the main difference between a traditional lock and a smart one is the ability to use your phone, WiFi or Bluetooth to lock and unlock, never fearing forgetting your keys.
“A smart lock is a computerized version of a traditional lock, which requires a physical key to set the lock in place,” explained Bhattacharya. “The key to a smart lock is digital, however, and can be in the form of both a code entered on a keypad, or a command sent from a smartphone application using cryptography.”
Smart locks also differ in functions, aside from the main one that is to securely lock your home. Some come with more features than others, so keep this in mind when selecting the best one for your family.
“When considering the best smart lock system, keep an eye out for smart lock products that enable mobile access and offer live alerts,” said Bhattacharya. “Other advantageous features include custom user access codes, nighttime illumination, bump guards, and smart keys that you can change if your passcode gets in the wrong hands.”
How to install a smart lock?
When buying a smart lock, you can go one of two ways. Check out services that do the installation for you, or read the instructions on the package for a DIY project. Bhattacharya says that these instructions should be pretty straightforward, so don’t stress that you aren’t smart enough for your smart lock.
Then, think about which doors you may want these locks on. The most popular choice is the front door, but they can also be used on back doors, sheds and other entry points to your home, so long as they can be connected to the main WiFi network. Need an extension? Check out these options here.
Shop the best smart locks you can find online in 2023
This smart lock from Best Buy is a great bet, as it comes with a lot of the expert recommendations features, like app-access on your phone, a voice assistant and alerts sent right to your phone.
2. Level Lock Touch Edition, $299, original price: $329
Lock and unlock you home with just a touch. This super smart lock is touch-enabled, but you can also use a keycard, the app, your voice or a traditional key, perfect for each family member’s preferences.
If you prefer a video lock, here is another smart system to consider. The video smart lock comes with the keypad and camera, plus a deadbolt smart lock for WiFi enabled entry on your phone or in the app, where you can also monitor the camera from anywhere.
Ring the alarms, we found a great smart lock! This is a bestseller on The Home Depot’s site, offering both a keypad entry or via the app on WiFi, plus an alarm system should someone unauthorized try to come in.
5. TEEHO TE001 Keyless Entry Door Lock, $40, original price: $50
For the most budget-friendly option, we found this Amazon Choice bestseller, that offers the basics and a great bang for your buck. The system can be set up with 20 access codes, plus a temporary one for guests, and can be installed in minutes with just a screwdriver.
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